Academic care is the core focus of our Senior experience as we work to create rich and meaningful opportunities to develop our students not only as learners but also as people.
This holistic focus, grounded in research, particularly that relating to girls education, is designed to help us assist our girls be inspiring young women who serve and shape the world.
Our curriculum, centred around ACARA and QCAA standards is delivered in a way that allows our students to do a deep dive into concepts and content. Our academic program is supported by our pastoral program, with the THRIVE Succeed and THRIVE Connect models working concurrently to develop students’ soft skills and their readiness for life post-school. Students are supported by their Head of Year who cycle through with them through their Senior School journey allowing for each girl to be known by this consistent adult presence while at school.
Our academic mentoring system also provides a greater sense of connection, with girls working with their Head of Year or a member of the School Leadership team to set goals for the semester and develop tangible strategies to help them realise these goals. The vertical THRIVE Connect small group creates a greater sense of sisterhood with our older students mentoring younger students throughout their secondary school journey. Community is also established through our THRIVE Contribute program which focuses on service, a key tenet of the school as it brings life to our motto Non Nobis Solum (not for ourselves alone).
The school enrichment programs, with bespoke activities per year group, allow for the extension of critical and creative thinking skills as students are able to undertake a range of activities throughout the year that allow for skill development and real world connections inside and outside the classroom and nurture their individual skills and talents.
We are supported in this process by our brother school, The Southport School, with the campuses organising combined activities for students and parents as a way of developing shared language among our community. With over 100 co-curricular opportunities on offer, in addition to our suite of elective and senior subjects, our students also have an opportunity to engage with activities that will help them deepen their friendships and skillset and also explore areas of passion.
Secondary School is an exciting, engaging and relevant experience where girls are encouraged to become independent thinkers, taking responsibility for their actions and for their learning. A strong culture of engagement in learning helps to promote new connections and creativity. Leadership, team building, social and cultural awareness, and a strong sense of personal self-worth are key elements to the schooling experience here at St Hilda’s.
Ms Sheri Upasiri - Head of Students, Research and Engagement